New evidence to increase gap between Astra-Zeneca vaccine doses

Friday 12 February 2021

The gap between AstraZeneca doses is going to be increased from six to 10 weeks, in response to new scientific evidence.

While this only applies to the AstraZeneca vaccine - also colloquaily known as the Oxford vaccine - it does mean that some second dose appointments will have to be rescheduled.

Anyone in the 70-79 age bracket who has been booked in for their vaccine will be written to, explaining the decision and provide a new appointment date and time for their second dose. Dr Brink said the first affected appointments will be at the beginning of March, so people will have advance notice of the changes. 

Her Public Health team has recommended the new guidelines to Health & Social Care, which has chosen to adopt them. So far, around 13,000 people have received their first dose of the vaccine and 3,000 of those have also received their second dose. 

Pictured: HSC President Al Brouard has urged people to accept offers of vaccination at the Beau Sejour Covid Vaccination Centre. 

"New scientific evidence has emerged in respect of how we can ensure that the vaccines administered are as effective as possible," said HSC President Deputy Al Brouard.

"Significantly, there is now clear evidence that by leaving a longer gap between doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the second dose is more effective, providing more protection to the individual. 

If anyone cannot make their new appointment time they will be able to call and reschedule.